Letrozole ovulation regimen for frozen-thawed embryo transfer in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are usually selected to undergo an ovulation induction regimen or a programmed regimen for endometrial preparation in the frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) during their IVF/ICSI treatment. The programmed regimen permits flexible scheduling of embryo transfer but requires long-term usage of exogenous estrogen and higher dosages of luteal support while the letrozole ovulation regimen needs lower dosages of luteal support only. Recently, multiple studies have shown that the letrozole ovulation regimen can improve pregnancy outcomes of FET in women with PCOS compared with the programmed regimen. However, most of these studies are retrospective, and prospective studies are urgently needed the evidence from the perspective study is insufficient.Methods/design We are undertaking a multicentre, randomized, controlled clinical trial of an endometrial preparation regimen for FET in women with PCOS. The eligible women are randomly assigned to either the letrozole ovulation regimen or the programmed regimen for endometrial preparation. The primary outcome is the clinical pregnancy rate.Discussion The results of this study will provide evidence for whether the letrozole ovulation regimen for endometrial preparation could improve pregnancy outcomes in PCOS women undergoing FET.Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200062244. Registered on 31 July 2022.